ROCHESTER, Minn. — Sept. 27, 2013 — Beginning Jan. 1, 2014, each state will have an online Health Insurance Marketplace (Marketplace), sometimes referred to as the "exchange," which allows individuals, families and small businesses to compare and purchase insurance plans offered in their area. Marketplace enrollment can be done online, by phone (1-800-318-2596 or TTY 855-889-4325) or with in-person assistance with a trained, Marketplace-certified assister. Open enrollment begins Oct. 1, 2013, for health plans startingJan. 1, 2014.

Patients may wish to visit the Marketplace to review options if:

They do not have insurance

They have Medicaid insurance or think they will qualify for Medicaid

They have state-sponsored high-risk/safety net insurance such as the Minnesota Comprehensive Health Association (MCHA) or the Health Insurance Risk-Sharing Plan (HIRSP)

They feel underinsured or their current insurance is not affordable.

The Marketplace also offers a Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) where employers can compare and choose from health insurance plans. To learn more about the public exchanges/Marketplaces, check out these Frequently Asked Questions .

Some states offer state-specific Marketplace resources. Mayo Clinic patients living in Minnesota, for example, may visithttp://www.mnsure.org or call 855-366-7873 for more information.